The census was carried out at four key waterbodies in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region—Bhandup Pumping Station, Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary, T S Chanakya Wetlands, and NRI Wetlands. Around 100 citizen volunteers, along with Forest Department staff, participated in the exercise
More than 30 species of waterbirds were recorded during the activity. PIC/ Mangrove Cell - Maharashtra Forest Department
The Mangrove Cell on Saturday conducted a waterbird census as part of the Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) programme, a citizen science initiative that monitors waterbirds and wetlands across Asia. The AWC is organised by Wetlands International under the global International Waterbird Census and is conducted annually in January.
The census was carried out at four key waterbodies in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region—Bhandup Pumping Station, Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary, T S Chanakya Wetlands, and NRI Wetlands. Around 100 citizen volunteers, along with Forest Department staff, participated in the exercise. Participants were divided into four groups, each assigned to a site where waterbird species and their numbers were systematically recorded.
The survey was guided by experienced bird experts and researchers from the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), the nodal agency for the AWC programme in India. More than 30 species of waterbirds were recorded during the activity, including several migratory species such as Northern Pintails, Eurasian Spoonbills, Gadwalls, Temminck’s Stints, Marsh Sandpipers, Wood Sandpipers, Black-tailed Godwits, Northern Shovelers, Whiskered Terns and Brown-headed Gulls.
Speaking on the occasion, Madhumitha S., Deputy Conservator of Forests, Mangrove Cell, said, “The Asian Waterbird Census is an excellent programme for monitoring waterbirds and wetlands. It also plays an important role in raising awareness about the conservation of waterbirds and wetlands in the country.”
S. V. Ramarao, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Mangrove Cell, said, “Such programmes provide a valuable opportunity for citizens and Forest Department staff to work together towards wildlife monitoring. The Mangrove Cell plans to conduct this census every year with the support of citizen volunteers.”
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